Locust Bean Gum (Carob BeanGum)
What Is Locust Bean Gum?
Locust bean gum (aka carob gum, carob bean gum, E 410) is a natural galactomannan extracted from the endosperm of seeds of the carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua)
Its molecular structure, a mannose-based backbone with galactose branches, gives it high viscosity and gel-forming capacity across temperatures.
Functional Benefits for Food Manufacturers
High water-binding & syneresis control: Excellent at retaining moisture and preventing water separation in products such as dairy, fruit preparations, and sauces
Texture customization via synergy: Works seamlessly with carrageenan, xanthan, agar or tara gum to engineer textures from creamy gels to elastic gummy textures
Freeze–thaw stability: In ice creams and frozen desserts, it helps inhibit ice‑crystal growth for smoother mouthfeel and heat‑shock resistance
Neutral flavour: Adds structure without interfering with flavour profiles, valuable in both sweet and savoury formulations
Clean‑label and plant‑based appeal: Natural, vegan, non‑GMO compatible, often usable in organic, Halal or Kosher-labelled products
Locust Bean Gum is suitable for a range of applications including marinades, dressings, soups, fruit fillings for bakery, and ice creams.
Key Attributes
| Feature | Benefit for Manufacturer |
|---|---|
| High water-binding | Moisture retention, prevents syneresis |
| Thermal and freeze stability | Smooth texture in frozen or hot applications |
| Synergistic compatibility | Customisable textures with xanthan, carrageenan |
| Neutral flavour | Clean taste, versatile in sweet & savoury formats |
| Fibre content | Prebiotic, digestive support |
| Clean‑label source | Vegan / natural / non‑GMO / certified |
| Quality assurance | Batch consistency, formulation reliability |
Application Areas
Dairy & Plant-Based Alternatives
Ice creams and gelatos benefit from creamier texture and resistance to recrystallisation.
Yoghurts, plant‑based milks and creams remain stable and creamy over shelf life.
Cream cheese and cultured cheeses gain viscosity and stability during ageing processes.
Bakery & Gluten-Free Products
Retains moisture in cakes, muffins and fillings to extend softness and delay staling.
Adds structure in gluten‑free baked goods, improving crumb and chewiness
Meat & Meat Alternatives
Binds water and fat in processed meats and plant‑based products, improving juiciness and bite without artificial additives
Beverages & Nutritional Drinks
Stabilises suspensions in protein shakes, plant milks and nutraceutical drinks; improves mouthfeel and reduces sedimentation
Confectionery & Desserts
In gummies and jellies, when combined with carrageenan, delivers stable, elastic gels.
Adds body to puddings and fruit toppings; prevents weeping and enhances consistency
Health & Nutritional Considerations
A source of soluble fibre: Nearly all its carbohydrate content is fibre, galactomannan, which functions as a prebiotic and may support gut health, regularity, and beneficial microbiota
Potential physiological effects: Even though typical usage levels in foods are small, research suggests possible modest improvements in blood sugar, cholesterol and lipid profiles, though human studies remain limited
Clinical use in infant formulas: Can reduce reflux and regurgitation in infants when properly used under medical supervision, but should be carefully controlled due to digestive sensitivity in younger populations (approved up to 10 g/L in medical settings)
Safety profile: Generally recognised as safe (GRAS in the US, approved as E 410 in EU). Animal studies show no toxicity or carcinogenicity at high doses; rare allergic reactions have been documented, usually via occupational exposure
Why Healan?
Healan is one of the UK’s leading suppliers of locust bean gum. In addition to the general benefits above (thickening, syneresis control, shelf‑life, ice‑crystal prevention, moisture retention, natural credentials), Healan stands out by offering:
Stringent quality standards: High galactomannan purity (>80 % expected), controlled ash and moisture levels, consistent colour and particle size, all critical for reliable formulation
Certification & traceability: Products available with options for organic, non‑GMO, Halal and Kosher certification, along with full traceability documentation.
Technical support and formulation guidance: Tailored advice on gum synergies, viscosity profiles, lab trials and texture engineering.
Related Items
Confectionery
Preserves
Meats
Dairy
